A/N: This chapter marks a milestone, it marks page one thousand of this story, all written by hand. This chapter is longer than usual, but I hope you enjoy it. The drama really unfolds in this one so read it carefully, or you will miss some important foreshadowing. Also, there is a quote at some point, from the KJV of the Bible, Job 1:7. Thank you so much for reading and reviewing this story, it has been a labor of love, blood, sweat and tears. Thank you! All the best for a great day. LDB.
The month of May came to a close. It had been filled with highs, like Adam's Teacher of the Year achievement, and lows, like the loss of Heath and Jason's baby. However, the family stuck together, and managed to get through it all.
Heath still had days when he went up to his room and sobbed. Other days, he lost himself in looking after Rebecca and Adam. Wade still had end of the year school work to do at his office, and was thankful Heath was able to keep Adam company.
Shawn was able to go work at Hunter's office every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. He worked half the day, sometimes morning till noon, others noon till five or six depending on when Hunter needed him most.
Shawn had been pleased to find that Hunter and John had kept the files fairly organized. Shawn only had to fix a few misplaced ones. Also, two other desks had been added, one for Mark, the other for Glenn. The office was crowded, but they managed.
There had been a change in the Marshal's Office. More men had been hired and that meant Mark's territory had been greatly reduced. Glenn had officially been paired with his half-brother. They patrolled an area of seventy-five square miles. It meant that for the first time, Mark had a home.
Mark bought five acres from Bret that lay near the edge of town. He and Glenn built a four room house and lived quite peacefully together. The thing Mark liked most was going home and sleeping in his own bed, in his own house, on his own land.
A year had passed since Shawn, Jason and Adam had arrived in Great Falls as frightened runaways. Now, they were one of the most loved and respected families in town. It still amazed them how much their lives had changed in that one, short year.
On the darker side of things, three men, who called themselves The Shield were making their final plans for a crime. Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns and Dean Ambrose planned to rob the Bank of Great Falls on Monday, June third. When one hundred thousand dollars would be delivered for the start of the banks fiscal business year.
What The Shield didn't know was that the students and teacher of the Maple Street School would also be at the bank on June third, to watch the delivery of the money and have a tour of the bank. Afterward, there was going to be a class picnic at the water falls, where the town got its name.
Dean had managed to charm Eva Marie Johnson and had managed to get behind the counter of the Dry Goods Store. She had asked Dean to repair one of the wooden shelves that held a display with spools of silk thread. While Dean made the repair, Eva Marie did some sewing. Her distraction provided Dean with the opportunity he needed to really examine the secret passage from the bank.
Dean managed to find the hidden latch and spring it. He put one small nail in a spot to keep the door closed. All they would have to do is give the door a swift kick and they would have their escape route. Dean also managed to learn that the back door of the Dry Goods store was thin and would also be easily broken.
Dean did have one problem, Eva Marie had fallen in love with him. So much so, she'd started hoping for an engagement ring. Even her mother liked Dean, and often had him to dinner. Dean was starting to feel trapped, but until June third, he had to play the role of a dutiful beau.
On Saturday, June first, Chris Helmsley had just finished packing Hunter's bags for a trip to Helena. Hunter would be leaving on the Sunday night train, and would gone for a week. Mark and Glen were making the same trip. John Cena-Orton would be the acting Sheriff while Hunter was away.
Hunter had been invited by the Territorial Governor to be on the committee that would write laws to unite all the Sheriff's across Montana. This was being done in preparation of Montana becoming a state. On November eighth, the territory of Montana would become the forty-first state in the union.
While it was an honor for Hunter, Chris would miss his husband very much. Chris sighed deeply as he buckled the strap on Hunter's carpet bag. "All packed, Hunt. Are you sure you have to go?" Chris asked with a pout, his blue eyes full of sadness.
Hunter dried his face, he'd just finished a quick wash up, after a long day at the office. The Sheriff went to his husband and wrapped Chris in his muscular embrace. "Yeah, I do. You know what an honor it is. You were excited when I got the letter from the Governor, why the change?" Hunter asked softly as Chris nuzzled against his shoulder. He kissed the top of Chris' head.
"I'll miss you and so will the children," Chris said with a bit of a sniff as he hugged Hunter tightly. Chris felt that if he let go, Hunter would somehow vanish.
Hunter frowned, this wasn't his Chrissy. Something was wrong. He gently lifted Chris' chin with his fingertips. Hunter's amber eyes looked deeply into Chris' blues. "I've been gone before, and for longer. What's this about?"
Chris looked at Hunter. It always amazed him, even after all these years together, that Hunter could so easily read his thoughts. Chris sighed. "You know me too well, my love. Alright, I don't want you to go. I have a feeling something is going to happen while you're gone. I know John can handle things, but..." he let his voice trail off, he knew he sounded ridiculous.
Hunter furrowed his brow. It wasn't like Chris to be like this without a reason. Chris was the strongest and bravest man he knew. If it wasn't for the children, Chris would make an excellent deputy. That was what brought them together in the first place.
Hunter had been on his way to the new town of Great Falls, to apply for the job as Sheriff. He'd been a deputy in Helena, but wanted to be a Sheriff in his own right. He met Chris on the train. When Chris had smiled and looked at him with those blue eyes, Hunter was in love. Chris had come from New York State to make a life in the exciting west. Hunter, if hired, knew he would need a deputy. He learned, as he and Chris talked, that the pretty blond was a deadly shot, and Chris liked the idea of being a deputy.
Hunter was hired by Judge Ross and Chris was appointed as his deputy. After a year, Hunter and Chris were married. They knew they wanted children, but both parents in law enforcement would not be good for raising a family. So, Chris instead went to work for Bret Hart, who'd just built the hotel. They made a deal, Chris would run the hotel and never tell that Bret owned it. The was how the Helmsley Arms came into existence. Very few people even recalled that for a year, Chris had been Hunter's deputy. However, Hunter never forgot and he trusted Chris' intuitions as they had been right more than once. But, what was spooking Chris now? Things in town were quiet.
"What do you think is going to happen? It's been as quiet as a church around here, even the Wyatt's have been peaceful," Hunter's furrowed brow raised as he cocked his eyebrow. Hunter kept his gaze focused on Chris.
Chris shrugged. "I can't say directly, it's just a feeling. Maybe it's because it has been so quiet. Almost unnaturally quiet. I suppose I sound like a pouting husband who doesn't want to be left alone for a week?" Chris' eyes flicked down and his shoulders drooped. He didn't want Hunter to think was turning into a week kneed scardy cat.
Hunter gave a soft laugh and kissed the tip of Chris' nose. It made Chris smile and look up at Hunter once again. "You still have the most beautiful blue eyes I have ever seen," his voice was low and husky, his eyes burned with lust filled passion.
Chris flushed deeply. It had been a while since they'd had some grownup fun together. Now, what with Heath out for a month and Jason for two more weeks, the couple had less time. Chris was usually too tried or Hunter was too busy doing work for the committee.
"You know the kids are at Zack's, for Martin's birthday party. They won't be back till after supper," Chris responded in his own lust filled voice. His fingers toyed with the large, silver Sheriff's insignia buckle on Hunter's belt. His blue eyes filled with impish mischief.
Hunter gave a low growl and pulled Chris in roughly. He kissed his husband with a passion Chris had not experienced in a long time. Usually when they made love, they had to be quiet as to not wake the children. Hunter sorely missed the squeals and whimpers Chris made in the throes of heated passion. It wasn't long before the couple were in their bed, making love like wild newlyweds. Chris' worry that something was going to happen was, at least, for the moment, forgotten.
Sunday, June second dawned warm and sunny. The pouring rains of May had finally ended. The crops were growing and the school garden was full of green shoots and budding flowers. Shawn's roses were in bloom, and two silver vases of them decorated the front of the church.
Wade smiled. Adam's head rested on his shoulder and he was fast asleep. Wade prayed that his Poppet wouldn't start to snore. Jason sat next to Adam with his arm draped lovingly over Heath's shoulder. His eyes glanced sideways and looked at his red-headed husband.
Heath's brow was furrowed and he was intently taking in the words of Brother Ted's sermon. The sermon topic was perfect for Heath's first Sunday back in church after losing the baby. Ted preached about why bad things happen to good people.
Shawn sat on the other side of Heath. While he listened to the sermon, Shawn's eyes were focused on Bret. Bret held Rebecca in his arms. Her tiny, delicate finger was wrapped around her daddy's left index finger as she slept. Shawn imagined a teenage Bret, holding baby Wade. It made Shawn smile.
On the very back pew, Dean Ambrose sat with Eva Marie and her mother. They were on one side of Dean and on the other sat Roman and Seth. Seth growled internally and lightning sparked in his eyes. Seth was jealous.
Dean held Eva Marie's hand like it was the most delicate flower. Seth knew Dean was only playing a role, but it still hurt. Roman glanced at Seth as he shifted on the wooden seat. Roman could tell Seth was upset, and he knew why, but there was nothing he could do. Dean had to play his part. Roman also knew Seth was on edge, tomorrow was the big day. They were ready, their plan was complete.
Roman looked around at the church full of people. His eyes landed on Damien Sandow, who was sitting on the front pew with his family. The Banker smiled brightly as he looked at his new husband and their children. Roman wondered if the Banker would be smiling so smugly after tomorrow; as he, Seth and Dean rode off with the bank's money. The Islander was ripped out of his thoughts when Chris Helmsley began to play a hymn, marking the end of the service. Roman slowly stood and his deep voice joined Seth's tenor as they sang the final hymn with the rest of the congregation.
Everyone greeted each other after the service. They enjoyed the shining sun, the full heat of summer had not yet reached them. Bret held Rebecca proudly as people fussed over her.
Jason and Heath quietly walked across the street to the house. Heath didn't want to face another round of sympathetic looks. He knew people meant well, but he'd had enough "I'm so sorry's" to last a lifetime. Wade and Adam weren't far behind. Adam wanted to get out of his tight suit and get off his feet.
Eva Marie was talking to Kelly Nash. Every once in a while, the two friends would giggle and look over at Dean. Dean in the mean time was trapped by Eva Marie's mother, the Widow Johnson. She was going on about having grandchildren someday.
Roman snickered as he and Seth watched. Dean kept trying to escape, but Widow Johnson kept Dean by her side. She was proud of her daughter's beau and was expecting an engagement announcement soon.
Seth seethed, this time not out of jealousy, but because they had work to do. There were explosives to wire, horses to tend to, guns to load, bedrolls and saddle bags to pack. Final plans to go over. They were ready, but there were always last minute details to be polished. Roman placed a strong hand on Seth's shoulder. Seth vibrated with nervous tension.
"Calm down sweetheart. Everything will be alright. If you keep on like this, you're gonna draw that Marshal's attention," Roman nodded to where Mark was chatting with Bret and Shawn. Rebecca nearly vanished from view as Calaway held her securely in his arms. Glenn was busy talking to the Helmsley's as they stood close by.
Roman and Seth decided that Dean needed to be rescued. They went over to where their lover was standing with Eva Marie and her mother. Kelly had left with her fathers. Dean was talking to a disappointed looking Eva Marie.
"I promised them Sweetie Pie. We haven't had a chance to go fishing because of the rains. Come on now, you're not gonna deny your man a but of fishing time with his friends, are you?" Dean held her hand to his lips and kissed Eva Marie's fingertips. He smiled his most charming and boyish smile, his eyes held a pleading gleam.
"But Deannie, I have a roast in the oven and momma made an apple pie, special, just for you. You could have told me you had plans! I could have made a picnic and gone with you. I can even bait my own hook!" She placed her hands on her hips, but refrained from actually stomping her foot. Eva Marie knew she couldn't push too hard, but she wanted Dean to know she was not happy.
It was all Roman and Seth could do not to burst out in laughter. As it was they both had to bite their tongues. Roman stepped forward. He politely held his hat in his hands and bowed to the two women. He flashed a brilliant, charming smile at Eva Marie and her mother.
"You mustn't blame Dean entirely, Miss Johnson. We begged him to go with us, we had to talk him into it. He'd rather be with you, but we have some... man talk we need to... well, talk about. Dean is our voice of reason. You can understand, can't you?" Roman spoke softly, but earnestly. His eyes shone with hope and his brow was raised.
Seth's head was bowed a bit as he looked up at Eva Marie though thick, dark lashes, he looked so sad. Eva Marie's heart went out to Dean's friend. It must be serious. "Of course I understand Dean. You go be with your friends, and have a good time. Maybe you can stop by the house later this evening?" Eva Marie smiled and patted Seth's shoulder sympathetically as she spoke to Dean. She sealed her "permission" with a kiss to Dean's cheek.
Dean did a proper job of looking embarrassed and flustered. Ambrose, to Roman and Seth's amazement, even managed to blush a bit. "Now, now Sweetie Pie, not on the church steps. Thank you for understanding, it is important. I won't promise, but I'll try to stop by. I'll come to the store tomorrow before work, that I will promise. You and your mother have a nice afternoon, and get some rest, you work too hard. You'll ruin those beautiful eyes with too much sewing. Good bye Sweetie Pie, good day Ma'am," Dean bowed to the two ladies and kissed both their hands like a proper gentleman. His smile was bright and his cheeks stiil had a bit of a flush as he hurried off with Roman and Seth.
Eva Marie sighed softly as she watched Dean mount his black stallion. She could almost taste the wedding cake as Dean rode away.
Almost all of Adam's students were gathered around Chris. He was going on the field trip to the bank tomorrow and was now giving the students their final instructions. "Remember, we'll meet at the hotel first, at eight in the morning, and don't be late. As far as I know, your teacher will join us. If not, then Superintendent Barrett will be in charge. Don't forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes you can play and get wet in. We want you on your best behavior. Now, run along and I'll see you tomorrow," Chris gave a wave of his hands as he playfully shooed the children off to play.
Chris gathered up his own three children and headed for their house. Hunter had left earlier with Mark and Glenn. They had a few papers to get from the office to take to Helena.
At number twelve Maple Street, the family was enjoying their Sunday lunch on the front porch. Shawn had put a pot of his famous beef sandwich meat on to cook before they had eaten breakfast, and they were now enjoying the delicious sandwiches, potato salad and lemonade. Shawn had also made a peach pie that would go with the ice cream that would be churned later in the afternoon.
Adam was on the porch swing with Wade. He rubbed his belly. "Please go to sleep, baby Barrett. I can't eat with you playing circus clown in there," he whined as the baby did flip flops in his tummy, or at least it felt like it.
Wade smiled, put down his plate and began to rub his husband's distended belly. "Now you listen here, Baby Barrett, you be still in there. You are not done baking yet so settle down and let your dear Poppa eat his lunch," he spoke like a strict parent as he gently rubbed. When the baby "heard" and felt its daddy tone and touch, it began to quiet down. Adam sighed with relief.
"I don't know how you always manage to do that, but I'm glad our baby listens to one of us. I hope it's not like that when it's born," Adam joked and was finally able to pick up his sandwich. Wade laughed when Adam took an enormous bite of food.
Heath gave a sad sigh, but smiled as he watched Adam from his place on the steps. He didn't want to bring the mood down. Jason saw past his husband's plastered on smile.
He was proud of Heath for trying so hard. He leaned down to Heath who sat between his legs, one step lower. "I love you Sweet Pea. You are being so brave and I'm proud of you. No matter what, remember I love you more than anything, children or not." Jason sealed his whispered words with a kiss to Heath's temple.
Heath craned his neck to look up at Jason. "I love you Jay-Jay," he puckered his lips and smacked them. He looked like a fish out of water as he asked for an upside down kiss. Jason laughed and obliged his husband with a loud, wet kiss.
Shawn smiled as he watched his sons with their spouses. He was content, he couldn't have been happier. Bret rocked Rebecca's cradle gently with his foot. He smiled at Shawn's smile, the happiness made Shawn simply glow.
Roman Seth and Dean had ridden deep into the woods north of town. It was where they had hidden the things they would need tomorrow. They always picked a spot like this to keep as not only a storage place, but as an emergency hideout if they needed it. The spot was perfect. People could go right past it and never see the small clearing in the thicket of woods. Even the three black stallions were hidden from view. The Shield would double back from the south tomorrow, hide till dark, then escape, one hundred thousand dollars richer.
Dean was working on a fused timer that would be added to several sticks of dynamite. His nimble fingers easily manged the small tools. Roman dug up more things Dean would need from their hidden burial places and Seth heated a can of beans of a nearly smokeless fire. Seth hadn't spoken since they'd left after church, and now he poked at the fire like it was a vicious animal.
Dean looked up from his work. "I don't like ashes in my beans, darlin'," he went back to his delicate job. Dean hadn't noticed that Seth's anger was directed towards him. Seth growled. His dark eyes shot sparks at Dean. He threw the stick he'd poked the fire with at Dean. It hit its target and scratched Dean's face, leaving a long, bloody mark.
Dean's hand flew to the cut on his cheek. He felt the cut then looked at the blood on his fingers. He glared at Seth. Seth was sitting on the ground, cross-legged, his arms folded over his chest. His lips were pouting so much he looked like a three year old who didn't the toy he wanted. An uncharacteristic tear ran down Seth's cheek.
Dean carefully put down the tools and crawled a few feet over to where Seth sat. Seth was always a bit nervous before a job, but this wasn't normal. Dean reached out and with his bloody fingers, gently caressed Seth's face. His thumb swiped away the lone tear.
"Sethie what's wrong? I know you're nervous about tomorrow but..." Dean's eyes searched Seth, his brow was deeply furrowed and Dean's lips set a grim line.
Seth looked up at Dean through his thick, wet lashes. When he saw the bloody scratch from the stick he'd thrown, his eyes opened wide. A deep frown replaced the pout. He gently brushed the damaged flesh with his fingers.
When Dean flinched, Seth felt horrible. "I'm sorry, my devil. I... hate... oh.. well, it's over now, so it doesn't matter. I didn't mean to hurt you," Seth spoke softly and gave Dean's injured cheek a soft kiss. He then licked the scratch. He tasted Dean's blood, it was like licking a salty one cent piece. He had a look of deep guilt etched on his face his eyes burned with apology.
Dean grabbed Seth's face in his hands and kissed him with eager passion. Their tongues battled until Seth finally relented and let Dean take control. When the kiss broke, a cobweb like line of spit kept them connected, until Dean spoke. He gave a bit of a laugh as he realized what emotion Seth's eyes really said.
"You're jealous of that slut, Eva, aren't you? Oh Seth, my angel, that is a complete waste of your time. I don't care one damn bit about her. Good lord, I pity any man that does marry her. She can do anything with a needle, but don't ever eat her cookin'! Most horrible food I ever put in my mouth. He ma is even worse! Thank you for rescuing me from that lunch. If I'd have eaten that, I don't think I would have been much help tomorrow. And, someone needs to teach that girl what tooth powder is!" Dean winked at Seth and gave him another kiss.
Roman smiled as he watched Dean and Seth. He shook his head, he felt a bit sorry for Eva Marie and was glad she hadn't heard what Dean had said about her.
"Really, Dean. You should be a bit kinder. I saw her with Nash's daughter, looking at rings in the catalog at the Mercantile, and I don't have to tell you what kind of ring, now do I?" Roman asked, his brow raise and his lips curled in a playful smirk.
Dean's mouth fell open and his eyes widened in shock. "I... I... had no idea... after only a few days?" his own brow furrowed. "I suppose I should feel bad, but I don't. She was a means to an end. If she gets stupid tomorrow, I'll shoot her. Probably put her out of her misery. She can wear a gold halo... if God lets a cook like that into Heaven. If he really wanted to punish people, he'd make her the Heavenly Head Chef," Dean joked with a mischievous grin and an elbow to Seth's side.
Seth laughed at Dean and gave the beans a stir, as he threw in some beef jerky. Roman rolled his eyes, but they shined with mirth. However, Roman did feel bad, he knew Dean would not think twice about shooting the seamstress if she got in the way.
Later that afternoon, Dean had prepared four rounds of explosives. The Shield were relaxing after a hearty meal of Seth's good beans with beef jerky. They'd also enjoyed some cornbread Roman had conned out of Miss Mae that morning during breakfast.
Seth had brought the map of Great Falls and studied it intently. He'd marked four circles with "X's" in them. One was a quarter mile east of town, one the same distance to the west and two more of the same distance to the southeast and southwest. His eyes were now closed and his lips moved silently as he made mental calculations.
Roman had packed their bedrolls with all their clothing, save the ones they wore. The rolls were neat and tight. Roman could probably pack a whole house in three bedrolls, he had a natural talent for it.
Dean picked at his teeth with his knife as his head lay in Roman's lap. All there men were smoking cigars, which Seth had managed to steal from the Mercantile while Roman had Zack and Dolph in a conversation. Even the beans they had eaten were stolen. Seth could steal a man's teeth and the man would never notice.
Seth opened his eyes and rolled onto his belly so he could see both his lovers. "It should keep 'em hopping for at least an hour. Dean, have we got the stuff to make one more? I'd like to set one to go off right at ten, draw attention away from the bank. What do you think, Ro?" Seth asked with a raised brow and a curl to his lips.
Dean looked up at Roman, the over at Seth. "Yeah. I got enough for one more... a big one... I can really draw the law... where?" Dean asked in a thoughtful tone as he put his knife back in its leather sheath attached to his belt.
Roman nodded as he rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Good idea. East, maybe a mile out, really confuse them," he gave a laugh and took a puff of his cigar.
Without another word, Dean got up and went to his saddlebag. He unpacked his tools and set to work on a forth device. Everyone was silent as Dean worked in the late afternoon sun.
The thicket hidden in the forest was eerily quiet. There were no insects buzzing or birds chirping, it was if they knew evil was in their midst.
Back in Great Falls, the afternoon had passed quietly. Chris was watching as his children played jacks on the sidewalk next to the train station. They were waiting for the train that would take their dad to Helena. Hunter, Mark and Glenn chatted as they puffed on cigars. They were sitting on a bench, carpet bags and satchels at their feet.
Mark looked at Chris then Hunter. "What's with your husband? He's paced enough to walk to Helena and back," his brow arched as he exhaled a perfect ring of blue-gray smoke into the air.
Hunter shrugged his shoulders and frowned. "He's worried. He thinks something is going to happen while I'm gone. I think it's because it's been a while since I've been gone on a longer trip... but... then again..." Hunter let his words fade. He hoped, for once, Chris was wrong. Several times during the last few hours, he'd considered not going, but, it was an honor to be on the committee.
Glenn let out a puff of smoke with a scoff. "That's why I'm not lookin' to get hitched. I'm sure once he gets used to you being gone, Chris will be alright. He has to know what a privilege being on this committee is." Glen spoke casually as he gave his cigar another puff.
Hunter pushed his hat back and nodded. "I'm sure you're right... well... those three look rested. I bet they slept instead of going fishing," Hunter said with a laugh as he watched Dean, Seth and Roman ride into town from the southwest. He'd told them about a great fishing hole on one of the Missouri's southern branches. Hunter watched as the three men rode into the alley that led to the stables.
Mark also watched as the men in black vanished from sight. "I hope they move on soon. They are nice enough, but that Ambrose fella is... on the fringe if you ask me," he leaned back against the wall.
Glenn nodded in agreement with his half-brother. "But they are clean. I searched everything, nobody with those names or descriptions turned up on any wanted posters or notices. Ambrose is alright, just a stallion sewing his wild oats . I just hope he treats Miss Eva Marie right..." his voice trailed off with an uncharacteristic flush. Glenn thought Eva Maire was beautiful. Maybe he was more lonely than he let on.
Hunter and Mark looked at each other with knowing smirks on their faces. Mark yawned as he spoke. "Well if they do leave, someone will have to comfort Eva Marie. Maybe I'll just have to be the gallant one," he gave Hunter a wink as Glenn gave a low growl with his exhale of smoke.
The whistle of the approaching train halted the lawman's conversation. Chris pulled his children from their game to the safety of the station platform. Chris gave his eyes a fast swipe with his hands, he wanted to hide his latest fit of near tears. He chided himself for being so weak kneed. Why was Hunter's leaving bothering him so much?
Chris relaxed as he felt Hunter's hands on his shoulders. Hunter leaned in and whispered in Chris' ear. "You'll be fine, Chrissy. Nothing is going to happen, but if it does, you, John and the Hardy's can handle it. Bret said he'd help out of needed. Legally you are still a deputy remember?" Hunter gave his husband's neck a soft kiss. The lips on his skin made Chris tremble. He turned in Hunter's arms, Chris' hands rested on his husband's muscular shoulders.
Chris smiled bravely as his eyes shone with moisture. "We will be fine. I am just being a silly sally. Kiss your children and go. I'm so proud of you and I love you, Hunt," Chris spoke with confidence and his smiled showed his brilliant white teeth.
"That's my Chrissy. I love you, boy." Hunter leaned down and gave his husband a kiss so powerful, Chris rocked on his toes when the kiss broke. Waves of love and adoration passed between the couple.
Hunter winked at his breathless husband and turned to his children. The kids were talking to Mark and Glenn. He scooped up one twin in each arm and kissed them. "You girls behave and help your poppa in the house. Ed, son, I'm counting on you. Take care of your sisters and your poppa. You behave at the bank tomorrow, set the example. I love you three monkeys. If your good, I'll bring you surprises from Helena." Hunter gave Loretta and Leah each another kiss, then set them down gently as feathers. He gave his son a hug and bent down to kiss the top of his blond head.
"Don't worry, dad. I'll take care of poppa and the girls. I'll help John too. We don't need presents, just come home safely," Edward sounded more like an adult than a ten year old. The boy wore a stern expression and his blue eyes burned with utter confidence.
Mark and Glenn hugged the children and shook Chris' hand, then boarded the train. The children wanted to stay and watch the engine go up to the round about, come back and hook on to the last car, which then became the first car. Chris sat on the bench to watch as well.
As the engine slowly backed into the coupling of the car, Dean, Seth and roman came out of the alley between the stage depot and the Hardy's saloon. They saw Hunter and the two Marshals as they waved to Chris and children from the back "porch" of their car.
Seth smiled. "Could we be that lucky?" he gave an evil laugh as he realized the Sheriff and US Marshals were on the train, bound for Helena. The gods must be smiling on them.
Later that evening as the three criminals ate their dinner in the hotel restaurant, they learned Hunter, Mark and Glenn would be gone for at least a week. Seth had managed to charm the story from April as they ordered dessert. They couldn't believe their luck. As he ate his chocolate cake, Dean wondered if what his fellow diners would do if they knew what was in the saddlebags draped casually over their chairs.
It was a warm moonlit night as Seth, Dean and Roman walked out of town. They were going to place the explosive devices in the locations Seth had marked on the map. The fact that the Sheriff and Marshal's were gone didn't alter their plans in any way.
The Shield knew Deputy Orton and the Hardy brothers weren't pushovers, but they knew the secondary lawmen lacked the sharper skills of the Marshals and Sheriff. Seth had made a plan, and they stuck to it.
The morning of Monday, June third, eighteen eighty-nine, dawned to a cloudless sky. The birds sang their morning songs as they searched for their breakfast. Bees and butterflies flitted around the flowers in Shawn's garden. The pollen gathered on their feet would assure the continued growth of the colorful blooms. The nectar from the bees meant that honey would be plentiful.
Downstairs at number twelve Maple Street, Wade helped Adam into his shoes. "Are you sure you're up to this? I don't mind taking your place," Wade said with concern.
Adam sighed. "Yes, Wade. You need to go to the office. Chris will be with me. It's the last chance I'll have time to spend with my children till I return to school. Let me have today, and I promise I will rest from now on. I'll live in this bed till Baby Barrett is born, I swear it," he nearly begged. Adam looked at Wade with hope in his eyes, and a pout on his lips.
Wade shook his head with a laugh. "Poppet, you know I can't deny you anything, especially when you pout. Does it really mean that much to you? One day?" Wade asked, his brow raised. He was on his knees at Adam's feet, from helping with Adam's shoes. Wade's hands rested on Adam's thighs, a curl to his lips.
Adam reached out and gently caressed Wade's crinkled brow. "Yes, my Dragon, it does. I love my children and I want to spend this day with them. I want to see their faces as they learn, hear their laughter as they play at the picnic. It will give me a happy memory to cling to during the pains of birth. Please Wade, I promise, at the Bank I'll sit down and at the picnic I will rest in the shade. The fresh air will feel good too. Won't be long before I'm stuck in the house. Tell you what, if I get tired, I'll come home and skip the picnic, no fuss. I swear it, on our baby's welfare. Baby Barrett comes first, always," Adam said with a rub to his huge belly. He looked at his husband earnestly a smile on his full lips.
Wade placed his hands on Adam's belly. He could feel their child as it moved inside Adam. "What does it feel like?" he asked curiously as his hands followed the infants movements.
Adam's voice softened. "Like... life. Like I am sheltering a fragile life. It also feels like a fluttering butterfly. It's the most incredible feeling in the world," Adam grinned even more when he felt the baby settle and quiet under Wade's hands.
Wade kissed Adam's belly. "Alright, you can go. I'll be coming to check on you before you leave for the picnic," Wade leaned up and gave Adam a soft kiss.
Wade stood and with a grunt, helped Adam to his feet. They were in the small bedroom downstairs. The couple left the small room and went to the kitchen for breakfast.
Adam and Wade sat at the kitchen table. Bret held Rebecca Grace, and spoke to her. "Now, you be a good girl for Poppa. You have to let him do his work. You're nine weeks old now, big enough to behave. I have to go out to the ranch and check on the new colts, so you have to go to work with Poppa..." Bret was interrupted by Shawn, who'd been warming a bottle for Rebecca.
Shawn gave Bret the bottle. "She will be fine, dad. It's only half a day. I can't wait to see how she likes the water later at the picnic. Did you tell Kevin to have Ribbon hitched to the carriage at noon?" Shawn asked with a tickle to Rebecca's feet as she ate.
Bret adjusted the baby in his arms as he held her bottle to her greedy mouth. "Yup. He'll bring the carriage to Hunter's office at noon sharp. Shawn, are you sure about putting her in the water?" he looked over at his husband with a worried furrow to his brow.
Shawn smiled and laid a gentle hand on Bret's shoulder. "Yes, Bret. Both Jason and Adam were in the ocean at six weeks. I'm only going to the edge of the shallows, she won't be out of my hands. My mother always told me I could swim before I could walk. I'm a seaman, my darling. She will perfectly safe. You know how much she loves her bath time," he spoke with a smile.
Adam and Jason both laughed. Jason was able to speak first. "Poppa is right, Bret. We grew up in the ocean. I remember Adam always wanted to be a mermaid," Jason teased as he put a tea cup on a tray.
Adam laughed again. "Well, I do have the hair for it. Tell Heath I love him. Is he sleeping better?" he asked with a sip of his milk.
Jason nodded as he added a full pot of tea to the tray. "Yes, he is. I told him to stay in bed for breakfast. He's looking forward to the picnic. Thank you for inviting us," Jason said as he picked up the breakfast tray. Aside from the tea, he had soft boiled eggs and buttered toast, along with one of Shawn's beautiful roses in a silver bud vase. He was spoiling Heath during his time off from work.
Adam smiled. "Glad to have you both at the picnic. We'll need the extra chaperons. Heath is aright, being with the children?" he looked at Jason with concern.
Jason picked up the tray with a grunt. "He wanted to go, honestly. Doc thinks it's better for him to be around children. Heath is really strong, he'll be back to his old self soon. He already wants to go back to work, but Doc Orton said no. Heath still has healing to do. Poppa, should we meet you at noon?" Jason asked from the door, he wanted to get up to Heath.
Shawn swallowed a bite of soft boiled egg on toast with a nod. "It would be easier, that way we can follow the wagon with the children. Adam, you ride with us. The hayride in the wagon will be too rough for you," he gave a worried glance at Adam. He wasn't sure Adam should even be going, but he also understood the need to be out in the fresh air as much as possible before being confined to the house to wait out the last days of pregnancy.
With a smile and a nod, Jason left the kitchen. Everyone suddenly went into high gear. The dishes were stacked for Jason to wash later. Shawn took Rebecca upstairs, Bret on his heels, they had to change her and Shawn had to pack clean diapers, clothes and towels for the picnic later.
Back in the kitchen, under Adam's supervision, Wade filled four bottles for Rebecca. Two bottles of milk and two with apple juice. He put the bottles in a small basket with ice wrapped in a scrap of blanket . Wade then went upstairs to get ready for work, while Adam went to the front porch and waited on the swing. He loved the quiet mornings.
Bret held Rebecca while Shawn packed a pretty carpet bag. It had a lamb with a big pink bow around it's neck woven in soft, silky threads. It matched the lambs that decorated the nursery furniture. Bret had the carpet bag made by weavers in Helena. The weavers were in the process of making a bag for the Barretts with a pony on it.
Adam and Wade had picked a cradle with ponies and hearts painted on it. It was in their bedroom, just waiting for it's occupant. Later, when Baby Barrett was older, it would share the nursery with Rebecca. Adam was in no hurry for the Harts to move to Bret's ranch. He wanted Shawn around for a while to help him with being a new parent.
Wade, Adam, Bret and Shawn, who pushed Rebecca's pram, walked the half block to town. Had they taken the short cut, they would have noticed the three black stallions behind the bank. While it wasn't unusual for horses to be seen there, it was unusual to see three horses with enough guns strapped to their saddles to start a war.
While they had worked on the new Opera House, Seth kept an eye on the alley. He'd noted that no one ever used the alley until Jack or Sheamus took out the trash to burn, once a week, on Friday. Still it was a risk, but a highly thought out risk. When he had taken the three stallions to the alley earlier that morning, he made sure no one had seen him.
When Kevin and Scott went to the stables, they noticed the three black stallions were gone, they thought perhaps either the three men had left town in the middle of the night, or were out for a morning ride. They went on about their business of getting the horses needed, ready for the day ahead without another thought of the three black beasts.
Adam smiled like the brightest rainbow when he and Wade walked into the Helmsley Arms. All of his pupils were sitting like little angels on the velvet couches. In chorus the children greeted Adam and Wade.
"Good morning, children. I hope you have a good time, but remember, you are representing not only your school, but your teacher as well. Later, at the picnic, I want you to mind your elders. Do not go near the water until you're told you may. No rough play and be careful of the little ones. Now, do me proud," Wade addressed Adam's students firmly, but with a with a warm smile. That was why the students respected Superintendent Barrett, he was firm, but always fair and friendly.
As the eldest, Simon Sandow stood. "Don't worry, Superintendent Barrett. Father has the whole thing planned, and it's going to be interesting. We won't let you down," he beamed proudly. He was excited, he wanted to show off his Father's bank.
Wade gave young Sandow's shoulder a friendly pat. "Very good..." he paused and leaned in to whisper in Simon's ear. "Please, look after Adam, make sure he has a chair to sit in. If he looks over tired, please come to my office in the Court House and get me. And Simon, no need for anyone to know we had this talk." Wade gave Simon a wink and a smile.
Simon nodded. "Don't worry, Sir. Since Poppa Eric... well, Adam and Jason... are like brothers to me... I... I... love them very much," young Simon's voice cracked a bit. It felt nice to have older brothers, even if they weren't really related.
Wade looked at Simon with surprise in his eyes. "I had no idea you felt that way. You should tell them how much it means to you. I feel better knowing Adam will be well looked after," Wade broke off their conversation because Adam was headed their way.
Adam spoke to Simon for a moment, then turned to Wade. "He's a good boy. Jason and I need to spend more brother time with him and Shane. Now, go to work. I'll see you at noon, hopefully you can come along on the picnic as planned," he gave his husband a kiss on the cheek and winked at him with a playful smirk.
Wade kissed Adam's cheek and with a final good bye, left the hotel to go to his office. It would later be the worst decision he'd ever made.
Chris Helmsley came into the hotel lobby from the restaurant, he smiled when he saw Adam sitting with the students. "Well, how does fried chicken, potato salad and chocolate cake sound for the picnic?" Chris asked as he clapped his hands and rubbed them together excitedly. He licked his lips and his eyes gleamed animatedly.
The children chattered happily. While they looked forward to the trip to the bank, it was the picnic they were excited about. It was a good day for a picnic too, it was finally warm enough to swim and play in the water.
Chris and Adam talked a bit while the students took turns using the WC. Chris spoke quietly to Adam. "I asked Mae if Charlie could come with us, but she said he wanted to stay with her. Charlie said something rather odd. He looked at me and said, bad day, sad day. He went back to dipping the chicken into the flour, singing under his breath. Mae is worried, said he's been acting strange for a few days. She said he wandered off into the woods just up north, like he always does, but Mae said this time, when he came back, he started in with this bad day, sad day business," Chris spoke with a worried look and a deeply furrowed brow. Charlie's words only added to Chris' worry, about something bad happening, but he kept that to himself.
Adam gave a bit of a sad sigh and a frown. "I was hoping he'd go on the picnic and mix with the other children. I still have hopes he'll come to school in the fall. We'd better get going, or we'll miss that money drop," Adam said in a hurried tone.
Chris nodded in agreement. Together, the teacher and hotel owner gathered the children by twos and walked across the street. They got to the bank just as a fast moving train with just one car pulled into the station.
John Orton and the Hardy brothers ran across to the station, rifles in hand. The school group paused to watch the excitement. Suddenly a man carrying carrying a large box that was cuffed to his wrist appeared. He was surrounded by four, huge muscular men with rifles. Deputy Orton and the Hardy boys followed. The wary men moved rapidly, their eyes seemed to be everywhere at once. They brushed past Adam, Chris and the children without noticing the awed faces and wide, curious eyes that watched them.
"Delivery is being made," Seth said quietly as he watched the street below from behind the hotel room curtain.
Roman looked out of the window, his heart pounded, a slight sweat broke out on his brow. It was the money delivery that caused the reaction. "Oh god, are those kids going into the bank?" he whispered his words in Seth's ear.
Dean also looked. "Looks like the pretty teacher and his scholars. Oh well, they picked a bad, sad day to visit the bank. This changes nothing. Makes it even better, boys. Instant hostages, this is going to be easy," his words were cold and calculated. His eyes were as frosty as snow. His breaths were steady. Dean Ambrose was as hard and cold as steel.
Roman looked at Dean with wonder in his eyes. "They are children, Dean. What if one of them was yours?" his brow arched so high it vanished into the dark strands of hair that fell over his brow.
Dean's fingers tucked the stray strands of raven colored curls behind Roman's ear. "It's like the Preacher said on Sunday. About when God asked Satan where he'd come from and Satan said, 'going to and fro in the earth and from walking around on it.' Today he walks in Great Falls, and shows no mercy. Why now, Ro? You've killed before, without even breaking a sweat," Dean asked, his eyes glazed with an almost crazed expression. A sneer curled his lips.
Before Roman could answer, Seth spoke. "Come on, we have to go. The kitchen should be empty by now and the first explosion will go off soon. Just try not to shoot the kids. Or, we can walk away if you want?" Seth asked with a low growl. Why did Roman suddenly have a conscious.
Roman's beautiful, dark Island eyes flicked from Dean to Seth. Even though Seth had planned the job, Roman knew if he chose to walk away, Seth and Dean would follow, without question. He looked out of the window, the children were going into the bank.
Roman turned to his lovers. "Let's go and like Seth said, try not to shoot a kid," his face was set in stone, his normally full lips vanished in a thin line.
Dean gave Roman a nod of respect, then did what he always did before they began a job. He went to Roman and stood on his toes and gave the Islander's lips a firm kiss. He went to Seth and rammed his tongue down Seth's throat with a lust filled grunt. The three knew, it could be their last kiss.
When he got to the door, Roman also kissed Seth and gave him a loving wink. With a last glance around the room, to make sure nothing was left behind, The Shield left the room.
Inside the Bank of Great Falls, Damien quickly greeted the group of students, then led them into the large vault. Deputy Orton, the Hardy brothers and two guards from the train stood around the door to the vault, guns ready, eyes alert. The group of students were the only "customers" in the bank.
In the vault, two more guards stood near the big man with the box. The man sat the box down on a table in the center of the small room. He smiled at the children and the adults with them. He turned to one of his guards and gave a nod. The guard produced a key out of his vest pocket and opened the lock of the cuff around the big man's wrist.
When the cuff was off his wrist, the giant took the key, which seemed to vanish in his large fingers. He removed the other cuff from the handle of the box.
The man smiled at the children, then spoke. "Good morning, boys and girls. My name is Paul Wight. Do you know what my job title is?" Because of his huge size, his voice was deep, however, he spoke gently to the children. Loretta Helmsley's head barely reached above his knee.
Loretta craned her neck to answer the giant. "You are a Courier?" She asked in an unsure tone.
Paul smiled brightly, his large hand patted Loretta's head as gently as a feather. "That's right. I'm a Courier for the Wells Fargo Company. Every year I deliver millions of dollars to fine banks like this, from Boston to San Francisco. With the help of my friends, of course. Any questions?" he asked the students.
Martin Ziggler spoke up. "Aren't you afraid? Somebody could steal that money!"
Paul looked to his guards, then back at Martin. "Never. I have never been robbed. All the bad men know the money is well protected," his face smiled , but his voice was serious.
One of the guards with Paul pulled out his pocket watch and looked at it, just as a sharp whistle blast came from the one car train at the station. He looked at Paul with nod toward the door.
Paul nodded in return. "Well children, I have to go. More banks to visit. Have a good day," he waved and with his guards, left the bank. John, Jeff and Matt followed the Wells Fargo team to the station.
Damien looked at the children. "I will show you what's in this box, but first, I want to show you how the bank works. In a bigger bank, there would be people called Tellers, that help the customers. Here, because the bank is so small, I do all the work. However, the bank is growing, so I will soon be hiring a Teller. You're too young now, but maybe work in a bank would be something to consider. What classes do you think you would have to excel in to be a Teller?" Damien asked as he led the children back to the main part of the bank. Banker Sandow and the class continued their tour.
Meanwhile, the men from Wells Fargo boarded their special train. The engine had made the turn around while the delivery of money was being made. As soon as Paul and his guards were on board, the fast train pulled out of the station.
Deputy Orton and the Hardy brothers were in the middle of Main Street when an explosion so strong it shook the ground under their feet went off directly to the east. They saw a plume of black smoke rising up into the air.
John turned to the brothers. "We'd better check that, come on," he had a worried look in his eye. The brothers nodded and the three men rushed to their horses tied in front of the Sheriff's Office.
Other people in town had heard the explosion, but went back about their work when they saw the Deputy headed to the east. John would take care of anything that was amiss.
In the bank, Damien was instructing the children in how to fill out deposit and withdrawal slips. Chris and Adam watched from chairs at the front of the bank. Their eyes flicked toward the door when it flew open and Dean, Seth and Roman stepped into the bank. The three men had gleaming pistols in each hand.
Dean Ambrose stepped forward. "This is a hold up! Nobody move!"
